Delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony, the Chairman of the LLA Board, Hon. Samuel F. Kpakio, described the retreat as a timely platform to renew institutional focus and accelerate implementation of the Authority’s mandate under the government’s Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
“Our presence here over the next three days signals a shared commitment to our values, our objectives, and the mission of the Liberia Land Authority,” Chairman Kpakio said. “Our mandate is foundational not only to orderly development, but to peace, justice, economic growth, and social cohesion.”
Call for Stronger Government Chairman Kpakio expressed appreciation to the Sustainable Land Systems for Liberia (SLSL) Project, led by Mr. Christopher Byren, for its support in organizing the retreat. He also acknowledged the contributions of development partners over the years, noting that their assistance has significantly strengthened the LLA’s institutional capacity and reform efforts.
However, he emphasized that sustained government funding remains critical to the Authority’s long-term success.
“While development partners have played a vital role, increased fiscal investment by the Government of Liberia is essential if the Authority is to fully deliver on its mandate,” he said, citing limited financial resources, shortages of trained personnel, and heavy reliance on donor funding as ongoing challenges.
Strengthening a Critical National Institution Established by an Act of the Legislature on October 5, 2016, the Liberia Land Authority is charged with developing policies and implementing programs to improve land governance, administration, and management nationwide.
The institution operates through four core departments: Land Policy and Planning; Land Use and Management; Land Administration; and Administration and Customer Services. Chairman Kpakio stressed that the effectiveness of the Authority depends on collaboration among these departments.
“The success of the Authority depends not on any single department acting alone, but on strong coordination, shared purpose, and collective accountability,” he noted.
The Chairman also referenced recent leadership transitions within both the national government and the LLA. Following the inauguration of President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. in January 2024, five new commissioners were appointed to the LLA Board. Four have since been confirmed, while confirmation of the Commissioner for Land Policy and Planning remains pending.
He described the transition as an opportunity to strengthen governance and renew institutional momentum while ensuring continuity and alignment with national priorities.
Focus on 2025–2029 Strategic Plan Chairman Kpakio stressed that a key focus of the retreat is the implementation of the LLA’s Revised Strategic Plan (2025–2029), launched last December. The plan, developed in line with the Performance Management and Compliance System of the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, aligns with the AAID and outlines ambitious reforms for the land sector.
The LLA Chairman said, as 2026 marks the second year of implementation, participants are expected to review progress, identify challenges, and set measurable targets for the year ahead.
Each department will present its achievements, lessons learned, and planned activities for 2026. According to Chairman Kpakio, the objective is to promote transparency and collective problem-solving.
“On the final day, we must emerge with clear decisions and agreed-upon actions that will strengthen institutional coordination and improve service delivery,” he said. He underscored the broader significance of land governance to Liberia’s future.
“Land is not just an asset; it is identity, livelihood, heritage, and opportunity. How we govern land today will shape Liberia’s development trajectory for generations to come,” the Chairman added, assuring participants of the Board’s continued strategic guidance and oversight.
Local Authorities Call for Action on Land Disputes Also speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Africanus Dolo, Administrative Assistant representing the Office of the City Mayor of Ganta, commended the Liberia Land Authority for introducing a new deed system aimed at improving land administration in the country.
He extended appreciation to the Nimba County Land Administrator, Mr. Eddie Beangar, Sr, for raising awareness on land issues across the county. However, he urged the Authority to take decisive action in addressing major land disputes in Nimba, particularly in Ganta, where ongoing conflicts continue to create tension.
Three-Day Agenda Outlined Providing an overview of the retreat, LLA Project Director Madam Daniela Gray-Johnson described the gathering as an opportunity for honest reflection, strengthened oversight, and renewed institutional drive.
Day One features the opening ceremony, a presentation by Executive Director Mr. Stanley Toe, and sessions focusing on institutional memory and departmental updates from Mr. Sylvester Bundoo, Director of Land Administration, and Mr. Tom-Wesley Korkpor, Director of Land Use and Management.
Day Two will include a presentation by Mr. Varney Sheriff, Director of Administration and Customer Services, followed by breakout sessions and group presentations.
On Day Three, Mr. Christopher Byren, Manager of the SLSL Project, will deliver a presentation before participants deliberate on the SLSL Project; thereafter, the team will highlight key takeaways, major decisions, and formally close the retreat.
The retreat is expected to conclude with concrete resolutions and action points to guide the Liberia Land Authority’s operations throughout 2026 and beyond, as it works to strengthen land governance and promote sustainable development across Liberia
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Published by: Kweshie Tetteh
